Also note:

Many of the software programs listed above are available for your personal computer

Policies and Operating Procedures

In general, priority for use of the Data and Visualization Services lab machines is given to users with projects that require the specific software or hardware offered in the lab. During busy periods and when others are waiting, individuals without such needs may be asked to relocate to a less specialized lab space.

Computer maintenance cycle

The computers in the lab are periodically unavailable in order to undergo maintenance. The maintenance schedule is designed to avoid the busiest times in the lab, but on evenings in the weekends there may be many hours when the computers are unavailable.

Long-running jobs

It is expected that, from time to time, lab users will have long-running processes that will need to be accommodated. Before attempting a long-running job, you must contact us (see left-hand sidebar.) Failure to do so will likely end up in lost data. We also ask that you try to take advantage of times when the lab is not busy and others are not waiting to use the computers. Split files when possible to reduce the time between saving points and minimize the likelihood of losing work.

Scanning

Lab users with a scanning project (especially one that is related to data analysis or visualization) have priority on the scanning workstation.

Storing Your Work

Do not save your work on the C: drive (which includes your lab computer’s Desktop and My Documents folders). Lab computers erase files saved on the C:Drive by default.

You can save up to 1TB of work on your lab computer’s D: drive. Please note that when you save work on your computer’s D: drive, you are making it available for the next computer user to see. In addition, you must return to that specific computer to find your work on the D: drive because this drive is not networked on all lab computers.

You are welcome to bring a USB flash drive or external hard drive to the lab to save your work.